If it's been awhile since you got a raise and you're debating whether to ask for one, there are a few things you should think about before you march into your boss's office. The current climate in your field, the health of the company, and your own personal growth since your last increase are all important factors to consider.

This chart from the folks at PayScale, a salary research site, will help you determine whether now is the right time to ask your boss for a little more money in your paycheck. For example, if you've picked up some new skills in the past year and taken on new responsibilities, but you haven't been acknowledged for the work you've been doing, you have solid ammunition to present to your manager when you ask them for more money. On the other hand, if you got a raise last year and you were happy with it, or you've been coasting along, not really doing much new, you may want to wait to ask.

Of course, the doesn't cover one of the most important conditions: whether your personal conditions have changed and you need more money. Still, it gets you thinking about whether there are external factors that would make your boss say no before you even ask. Click to expand the image below, or head over to PayScale to view the full chart.